Netflix's New Horror Series Faces Backlash Over Dark Visuals
Netflix viewers have voiced widespread frustration over the dim and murky visuals in the platform's latest binge-worthy horror series, Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen. The show, which has garnered attention for its spooky atmosphere, is being criticized for making scenes nearly impossible to see on standard home screens.
Viewer Complaints Flood Social Media
On social media platforms like X/Twitter and Reddit, fans have expressed their annoyance with the show's lighting. One viewer posted, "Trying to watch Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen – why are films so dark? If you're releasing films on Netflix, consider the audience are watching it on a computer screen, not in a f***ing IMAX." Another echoed this sentiment, stating they "couldn't see a thing" on their television, adding, "It's not made for an old TV!"
Further comments highlighted the issue's impact on enjoyment. A fan noted, "Watching Something Bad Is Going to Happen on Netflix and I can't see s*** it's so dark!" while another admitted, "The first couple of episodes were so dark I could hardly see anything. But the vibe was great and I loved how spooky the family was."
Critical Reception and Broader Netflix Lighting Issues
Critics have also pointed out the visual problems. In a two-star review, The Independent's Louis Chilton described the series as "so dark and color-washed that it's hard to tell what you're even looking at." He added that the drab look "undermines everything else about it, neutering horror and drama alike."
This is not an isolated incident for Netflix. Recent projects, such as the 2025 adaptation of Frankenstein starring Jacob Elordi, have faced similar criticism. A review from Decider noted "that signature Netflix flatness in its lighting and focus, a lack of contrast that makes the surfaces stick together across each focal length." Chilton remarked that complaining about Netflix's lighting has become a "tedious axiom," comparing it to stating that "water is wet."
Series Overview and Production Details
Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen is executive produced by the Duffer brothers, creators of Stranger Things. The plot follows engaged couple Rachel, played by Camila Morrone from The Night Manager, and Nicky, portrayed by Adam DiMarco from The White Lotus, as they uncover a sinister curse in the days leading up to their wedding, resulting in chaos.
Despite the lighting complaints, some viewers praised the show's spooky elements and family dynamics. However, pacing across its eight episodes was also critiqued, with one Reddit user suggesting, "Maybe with 10 eps they could have paced it better."
As Netflix continues to release original content, the persistent issue of poor lighting setups remains a point of contention among both audiences and critics, potentially affecting the viewing experience for horror and drama enthusiasts alike.
